US20230124123A1 - Appliance power connector - Google Patents
Appliance power connector Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230124123A1 US20230124123A1 US17/502,900 US202117502900A US2023124123A1 US 20230124123 A1 US20230124123 A1 US 20230124123A1 US 202117502900 A US202117502900 A US 202117502900A US 2023124123 A1 US2023124123 A1 US 2023124123A1
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- Prior art keywords
- appliance
- terminal
- power
- stud
- shroud
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- 230000007935 neutral effect Effects 0.000 claims description 29
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000003989 dielectric material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011800 void material Substances 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
- H01R4/28—Clamped connections, spring connections
- H01R4/30—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a screw or nut clamping member
- H01R4/34—Conductive members located under head of screw
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
- H01R4/28—Clamped connections, spring connections
- H01R4/30—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a screw or nut clamping member
- H01R4/305—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a screw or nut clamping member having means for facilitating engagement of conductive member or for holding it in position
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R11/00—Individual connecting elements providing two or more spaced connecting locations for conductive members which are, or may be, thereby interconnected, e.g. end pieces for wires or cables supported by the wire or cable and having means for facilitating electrical connection to some other wire, terminal, or conductive member, blocks of binding posts
- H01R11/11—End pieces or tapping pieces for wires, supported by the wire and for facilitating electrical connection to some other wire, terminal or conductive member
- H01R11/12—End pieces terminating in an eye, hook, or fork
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R2105/00—Three poles
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R9/00—Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, e.g. terminal strips or terminal blocks; Terminals or binding posts mounted upon a base or in a case; Bases therefor
- H01R9/22—Bases, e.g. strip, block, panel
- H01R9/24—Terminal blocks
Definitions
- the subject matter herein relates generally to power connectors.
- Power connectors are used to power devices, such as appliances.
- the appliance wiring exits the appliance, such as from the rear of the appliance.
- the owner electrically connects the building wiring (line, neutral, ground) to the appliance wiring.
- wire nuts may be used to directly connect the building wiring to the appliance wiring.
- the building wiring may include a plug cord coupled to the appliance and having a plug at an end of a cable assembly, where the plug is coupled to an outlet of the building to supply power to the appliance.
- Some known appliances include terminal blocks having terminals. The appliance wiring and the building wiring are connected to the terminals. However, access to the terminals is typically restricted making connection of the building wiring to the terminals difficult. Additionally, the appliance wiring and the building wiring are typically made at different times, which may lead to disconnection of the appliance wiring or loss of parts.
- an appliance power connector in one embodiment, includes a terminal block having a base.
- the base includes an upper surface and a lower surface.
- the base includes a pocket.
- the terminal block includes an upper shroud and a lower shroud.
- the upper shroud has upper shroud walls extending from the base forming an upper chamber above the upper surface.
- the lower shroud has lower shroud walls extending from the base forming a lower chamber below the lower surface.
- the appliance power connector includes a power terminal coupled to the terminal block.
- the power terminal includes a main body, an upper stud extending from a top of the main body and a lower stud extending from a bottom of the main body. The main body is received in the pocket.
- the upper stud is located in the upper chamber above the base for connection to an upper power cable terminal.
- the lower threaded stud is located in the lower chamber below the base for connection to a lower power cable terminal.
- an appliance power connector in another embodiment, includes a terminal block having a base.
- the base includes an upper surface and a lower surface.
- the base includes pockets spaced apart along the upper surface.
- the terminal block includes an upper shroud and a lower shroud.
- the upper shroud has upper shroud walls extending from the base forming upper chambers above the upper surface.
- the upper shroud walls separate the upper chambers from each other.
- the upper chambers is aligned with the pockets.
- the lower shroud has lower shroud walls extending from the base forming lower chambers below the lower surface.
- the lower shroud walls separate the lower chambers from each other.
- the lower chambers is aligned with the pockets.
- the appliance power connector includes power terminals coupled to the terminal block at the pockets.
- the power terminals include a line terminal, a neutral terminal and a ground terminal.
- Each power terminal includes a main body, an upper stud extending from a top of the main body and a lower stud extending from a bottom of the main body.
- the main body has a locating surface. The main body is received in the corresponding pocket with the locating surface engaging the terminal block to locate the power terminal relative to the terminal block.
- the upper stud is located in the corresponding upper chamber above the base.
- the lower threaded stud is located in the corresponding lower chamber below the base.
- the lower stud of the line terminal is configured to be coupled to an appliance line wire of an appliance wire harness and the upper stud of the line terminal is configured to be coupled to a building line wire.
- the lower stud of the neutral terminal is configured to be coupled to an appliance neutral wire of the appliance wire harness and the upper stud of the neutral terminal is configured to be coupled to a building neutral wire.
- the lower stud of the ground terminal is configured to be coupled to an appliance ground wire of the appliance wire harness and the upper stud of the ground terminal is configured to be coupled to a building ground wire.
- a power connector system for an appliance includes an appliance wire harness having an appliance line wire, an appliance neutral wire, and an appliance ground wire.
- the power connector system includes an appliance power connector coupled to the applicant wire harness and configured to be coupled to a building wire harness.
- the appliance power connector includes a terminal block and power terminals coupled to the terminal block.
- the power terminals include a line terminal, a neutral terminal and a ground terminal.
- the power connector system includes the terminal block including a base has an upper surface and a lower surface.
- the base includes pockets spaced apart along the upper surface.
- the terminal block includes an upper shroud and a lower shroud.
- the upper shroud has upper shroud walls extending from the base forming upper chambers above the upper surface.
- the upper shroud walls separate the upper chambers from each other.
- the upper chambers is aligned with the pockets.
- the lower shroud has lower shroud walls extending from the base forming lower chambers below the lower surface.
- the lower shroud walls separate the lower chambers from each other.
- the lower chambers is aligned with the pockets,
- the terminal block includes an appliance mounting feature for mounting the terminal block to the appliance.
- Each power terminal includes a main body, an upper stud extending from a top of the main body and a lower stud extending from a bottom of the main body.
- the main body is received in the corresponding pocket.
- the upper stud is located in the corresponding upper chamber above the base.
- the lower threaded stud is located in the corresponding lower chamber below the base.
- the lower stud of the line terminal is coupled to the appliance line wire of the appliance wire harness by a first threaded nut.
- the lower stud of the neutral terminal is coupled to the appliance neutral wire of the appliance wire harness by a second threaded nut, and the lower stud of the ground terminal is coupled to the appliance ground wire of the appliance wire harness by a third threaded nut.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a power connector system for an appliance in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 2 is a top perspective, exploded view of the appliance power connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a portion of the terminal block in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the appliance power connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the appliance power connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment showing appliance wiring connected to the appliance power connector.
- FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the power connector system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the power connector system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a power connector system 10 for an appliance 50 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- the power connector system 10 is used for powering the appliance 50 .
- the power connector system 10 includes an appliance power connector 100 used to connect building wiring 12 to appliance wiring 14 .
- the building wiring 12 may include a cable assembly having a plug (not shown) at an end of the wiring configured to be plugged into an outlet of the building.
- the building wiring 12 supplies power from the building to the appliance 50 .
- the building wiring 12 may be wiring routed in a wall of the building being directly connected to the appliance 50 .
- the appliance power connector 100 is a single device.
- the power connector system 10 may include multiple appliance power connectors 100 .
- the building wiring 12 is connected to one side of the appliance power connector 100 and the appliance wiring 14 is connected to and opposite sides of the appliance power connector 100 .
- the appliance power connector 100 may be mounted to the appliance 50 , such as a frame, a wall, or another component of the appliance 50 .
- the appliance power connector 100 may be mounted internally within the interior of the appliance 50 .
- the appliance power connector 100 may be mounted to a back or the bottom of the appliance 50 such that the building wiring 12 is not viewable from the top or front of the appliance 50 .
- Other mounting locations are possible in alternative embodiments.
- the building wiring 12 includes a building line wire 20 , a building neutral wire 22 , and a building ground wire 24 .
- terminals 26 such as ring terminals, may be provided at the ends of the wires 20 , 22 , 24 .
- the wires 20 , 22 , 24 may be part of a wire assembly.
- the wires 20 , 22 , 24 may be part of a single power cable.
- the wires 20 , 22 , 24 may be surrounded by a jacket, sheath, tube, and the like.
- the building wiring 12 supplies power to the appliance power connector 100 and the appliance wiring 14 to power the appliance 50 .
- the appliance wiring 14 includes an appliance line wire 30 , an appliance neutral wire 32 , and an appliance ground wire 34 .
- terminals 36 such as ring terminals, may be provided at the ends of the wires 30 , 32 , 34 .
- the wires 30 , 32 , 34 may be part of a wire assembly.
- the wires 30 , 32 , 34 may be part of a single power cable.
- the wires 30 , 32 , 34 may be surrounded by a jacket, sheath, tube, and the like.
- the wires 30 , 32 , 34 may be individual wires that are grouped together as a wire harness.
- the appliance wiring 14 supplies power to the appliance 50 from the appliance power connector 100 .
- the power connector system 10 may include one or more electrical components 16 between the appliance power connector 100 and the appliance wiring 14 or between the appliance wiring 14 and the appliance 50 .
- the electrical component 16 may be a circuit protection device.
- the electrical component 16 may include a circuit board.
- the electrical component 16 may be directly connected to the appliance power connector 100 .
- the electrical component 16 may be remote from the appliance power connector 100 and electrically connected to the appliance power connector 100 by the appliance wiring 14 .
- FIG. 2 is a top perspective, exploded view of the appliance power connector 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- the appliance power connector 100 includes a terminal block 102 and one or more power terminals 104 coupled to the terminal block 102 .
- the building wiring 12 and the appliance wiring 14 are terminated to the power terminals 104 .
- the ring terminals 26 , 36 are coupled to the power terminals 104 .
- the ring terminals 26 , 36 are configured to be coupled to opposite sides of the power terminals 104 .
- Threaded nuts 106 , 108 are used here the ring terminals 26 , 36 to the power terminals 104 .
- the threaded nuts 106 , 108 may be threadably coupled to opposite ends of the power terminals 104 .
- the terminal block 102 is manufactured from a dielectric material, such as a plastic material.
- the terminal block 102 is a molded part.
- the terminal block 102 may be an injection molded.
- the terminal block 102 includes a top 110 and the bottom 112 .
- the terminal block 102 includes a front 114 at the rear 116 opposite the front 114 .
- the front 114 and the rear 116 extend between the top 110 and the bottom 112 .
- the front 114 and the rear 116 are generally planar and parallel to each other.
- the front 114 and the rear 116 may be nonplanar in alternative embodiments.
- the terminal block 102 has opposite sides 118 between the front 114 and the rear 116 .
- the sides 118 may be curved.
- the sides 118 may be planar and parallel to each other.
- the terminal block 102 is elongated along a longitudinal axis that extends between the sides 118 .
- the front 114 and/or the rear 116 may be parallel to the longitudinal axis.
- the terminal block 102 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments.
- the terminal block 102 includes a base 120 having an upper surface 122 and the lower surface 124 .
- the base 120 is configured to hold the power terminals 104 .
- the base 120 includes pockets 130 that receive corresponding power terminals 104 .
- the pockets 130 extend entirely through the base 120 .
- the pockets 130 are open at the upper surface 122 and open at the lower surface 124 .
- the power terminals 104 are loaded into the pockets 130 through the upper surface 122 . Portions of the power terminals 104 extend above the upper surface 122 and portions of the power terminals 104 extend along the lower surface 124 . As such, the power terminals 104 are accessible from above and below the base 120 for connection to the corresponding terminals 26 , 36 .
- FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a portion of the terminal block 102 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 3 illustrates one of the pockets 130 formed in the base 120 of the terminal block 102 .
- the pocket 130 passes through the base 120 .
- the pocket 130 includes an upper portion 132 and a lower portion 134 .
- the terminal block 102 includes a shoulder 136 extending into the pocket 130 .
- the shoulder 136 is provided at the bottom of the upper portion 132 .
- the shoulder 136 is used to support the power terminal 104 in the pocket 130 .
- the power terminal 104 may be seated against the shoulder 136 when received in the pocket 130 .
- the upper portion 132 is shaped differently than the lower portion 134 .
- the lower portion 134 is cylindrical and the upper portion 132 is polygonal shaped, such as being hexagonal shaped.
- the upper portion 132 includes a plurality of flat wall segments 138 (for example, six wall segments 138 ) surrounding the outer perimeter of the pocket 130 .
- the lower portion 134 and/or the upper portion 132 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments.
- the lower portion 134 and the upper portion 132 may have the same shape but may have different sizes, such as different diameters.
- the terminal block 102 includes one or more interference features 140 extending into the pocket 130 .
- the interference features 140 may be provided on one or more of the wall segments 138 .
- the power terminal 104 is configured to engage the interference features 140 when received in the pocket 130 .
- the interference features 140 may hold the power terminal 104 in the pocket 130 by an interference fit.
- the interference features 140 are crush ribs.
- the terminal block 102 may include other types of securing features in alternative embodiments, such as latches, clips, tabs, slots, grooves, and the like in the pocket 130 configured to interface with the power terminal 104 to hold the power terminal 104 in the pocket 130 .
- the terminal block 102 includes an upper shroud 150 at the top 110 and a lower shroud 160 at the bottom 112 .
- the upper shroud 150 is configured to surround upper portions of the power terminals 104 .
- the lower shroud 160 is configured to surround lower portions of the power terminals 104 .
- the shroud 150 , 160 surround the power terminals 104 to protect the power terminals 104 from damage.
- the shrouds 150 , 160 may protect against electrical shock by surrounding portions of the power terminals 104 and preventing inadvertent touching or electrical shorting.
- the shrouds 150 , 160 may provide electrical isolation between the power terminals 104 by preventing electrical arcing between the power terminals 104 .
- the upper shroud 150 includes upper shroud walls 152 extending upward from the base 120 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 form upper chambers 154 above the upper surface 122 of the base 120 .
- the upper chambers 154 are aligned with the pockets 130 .
- three upper chambers 154 are stacked side-by-side along the longitudinal axis of the terminal block 102 with the upper shroud walls 152 separating the upper chambers 154 from each other. Portions of the power terminals 104 extend into the upper chambers 154 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 provide protection for the power terminals 104 and electrical isolation between the power terminals 104 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 are non-continuous.
- the upper shroud walls 152 have gaps or spaces therebetween that form windows 156 .
- the terminal block 102 includes front windows 156 at the front 114 and rear windows 156 at the rear 116 .
- the windows 156 provide access to the power terminals 104 in the upper chambers 154 , such as for viewing the connection between the power terminals 104 and the building wiring 12 or for access by a tool to make the electrical connection between the power terminals 104 and the building wiring 12 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 extend between the front 114 and the rear 116 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 are curved making semicircular wall segments between the power terminals 104 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments, such as being planar and perpendicular to the front 114 and/or the rear 116 .
- the lower shroud 160 includes lower shroud walls 162 extending upward from the base 120 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 form lower chambers 164 below the lower surface 124 of the base 120 .
- the lower chambers 164 are aligned with the pockets 130 .
- three lower chambers 164 are stacked side-by-side along the longitudinal axis of the terminal block 102 with the lower shroud walls 162 separating the lower chambers 164 from each other. Portions of the power terminals 104 extend into the lower chambers 164 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 provide protection for the power terminals 104 and electrical isolation between the power terminals 104 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 are non-continuous.
- the lower shroud walls 162 have gaps or spaces therebetween forming windows 166 that provide access to the power terminals 104 in the lower chambers 164 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 extend between the front 114 and the rear 116 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 are planar and perpendicular to the front 114 and/or the rear 116 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments.
- the terminal block 102 includes mounting portions 170 configured be mounted to the appliance 50 .
- the mounting portions 170 may be mounted to the frame or a wall of the appliance 50 .
- the mounting portions 170 are provided at the bottom 112 of the terminal block 102 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 define the mounting portions 170 .
- a fastener openings 172 pass through the terminal block 102 at the mounting portions 170 .
- the fastener openings 172 to receive fasteners 174 used to secure the terminal block 102 to the appliance 50 .
- the fasteners 174 may be threaded fasteners configured to be threadably coupled to the appliance 50 . Other types of fasteners may be used in alternative embodiments.
- the terminal block 102 may be secured to the appliance 50 by other types of securing features, such as latches, clips, mounting brackets and the like.
- the power terminals 104 are used to electrically connect the building wiring 12 with the appliance wiring 14 .
- the power terminals 104 are double ended power terminals configured to be electrically connected to the wiring 12 , 14 at opposite ends of the power terminals 104 .
- Each power terminal 104 includes a main body 200 , an upper stud 202 and a lower stud 204 .
- the upper stud 202 extends from a top 206 of the main body 200 .
- the lower stud extends from a bottom 208 of the main body 200 .
- the upper stud 202 is aligned with the lower stud 204 along a central axis of the power terminal 104 .
- the upper stud 202 is a threaded stud and the lower stud 204 is a threaded stud.
- the studs 202 , 204 may be smooth posts rather than being threaded studs in alternative embodiments.
- the main body 200 is approximately centered along the power terminal 104 .
- the main body 200 has a different shape than the studs 202 , 204 .
- the main body 200 has a polygonal shape, such as a hexagonal shape, while the studs 202 , 204 are generally cylindrical shaped.
- the main body 200 is wider than the studs 202 , 204 having exposed surfaces at the top 206 and at the bottom 208 . The bottom 208 may be seated against the shoulder 136 of the pocket 130 when the power terminal 104 is loaded into the terminal block 102 .
- the main body 200 includes a plurality of flat surfaces 210 around an outer perimeter of the main body 200 .
- the flat surfaces 210 may face corresponding wall segments 138 when the power terminal 104 is received in the pocket 130 .
- One or more of the flat surfaces 210 may engage the crush ribs 140 to mechanically secure the power terminal 104 in the terminal block 102 , such as by an interference fit.
- one or more of the flat surfaces 210 define a locating surface 212 for the power terminal 104 .
- the locating surface 212 is configured to engage the terminal block 102 to locate the power terminal 104 relative to the terminal block 102 .
- the locating surface 212 engages the corresponding wall segment 138 of the pocket 130 .
- the locating surface 212 positions the power terminal 104 relative to the terminal block 102 in one or more directions perpendicular to the central axis of the power terminal 104 .
- the locating surface 212 may resist rotation of the power terminal 104 relative to the terminal block 102 .
- all of the flat surfaces 210 may form locating surfaces 212 , with each of the flat surfaces 210 engaging the corresponding wall segments 138 to position the power terminal 104 in the terminal block 102 .
- the upper stud 202 includes a shank 220 extending from the main body 200 to a distal end 222 at a top of the power terminal 104 . At least a portion of the shank 220 includes threads 224 along the exterior thereof.
- the upper stud 202 is configured to be threadably coupled with the threaded nut 106 .
- the threaded nut 106 includes internal threads 226 threadably coupled to the threads 224 of the upper stud 202 .
- the lower stud 204 includes a shank 230 extending from the main body 200 to a distal end 232 at a bottom of the power terminal 104 . At least a portion of the shank 230 includes threads 234 along the exterior thereof.
- the lower stud 204 is configured to be threadably coupled with the threaded nut 108 .
- the threaded nut 108 includes internal threads 236 threadably coupled to the threads 234 of the lower stud 204 .
- the lower stud 204 has the same diameter as the upper stud 202 . However, in alternative embodiments, the lower stud 204 may have a different diameter as the upper stud 202 .
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the appliance power connector 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the appliance power connector 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment showing appliance wiring 14 connected to the appliance power connector 100 .
- the terminal block 102 of the appliance power connector 100 holds three of the power terminals 104 for connection with the appliance line wire 30 , the appliance neutral wire 32 , and the appliance ground wire 34 .
- the power terminals 104 define a line terminal 104 a , a neutral terminal 104 b , and a ground terminal 104 c.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the power terminals 104 loaded into the terminal block 102 .
- the power terminals 104 are loaded into the corresponding pockets 130 of the terminal block 102 from above (for example, through the upper surface 122 ).
- the main body 200 of each power terminal 104 is received in the corresponding pocket 130 .
- the bottoms of the main bodies 200 may be seated against the shoulders 136 (shown in FIG. 2 ) of the pocket 130 .
- the top 206 of each main body 200 may be generally coplanar with the upper surface 122 of the base 120 .
- the upper studs 202 extend into the corresponding upper chambers 154 of the upper shroud 150 .
- the lower studs 204 extend into the corresponding lower chambers 164 of the lower shroud 160 .
- the lower shroud walls 162 have heights that are greater than the height of the lower studs 204 such that the bottoms of the lower shroud walls 162 are located below the distal ends 232 of the lower studs 204 .
- the bottom of the terminal block 102 may be mounted to a mounting structure, such as the appliance without damaging the power terminals 104 and without interference from the lower studs 204 .
- the windows 166 provide access to the lower studs 204 , such as for electrical connection to the appliance wiring 14 .
- the lower chambers 164 may be open at the bottom 112 to allow loading of the ring terminals 36 onto the lower studs 204 from below the appliance power connector 100 .
- the appliance wiring 14 may be connected to the appliance power connector 100 prior to mounting the appliance power connector 100 to the mounting structure of the appliance 50 .
- multiple appliance line wires 30 and/or multiple appliance neutral wires 32 and/or multiple appliance ground wires 34 may be connected to the line terminal 104 a , the neutral terminal 104 b , and the ground terminal 104 c , respectively.
- the threaded nuts 108 may be threadably coupled to the power terminals 104 to mechanically and electrically connect the ring terminals 36 to the power terminals 104 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 have heights that may be greater than the height of the upper studs 202 such that the tops of the upper shroud walls 152 are located above the distal ends 222 of the upper studs 202 .
- the upper shroud walls 152 have heights less than the height of the upper studs 202 .
- the distal ends 222 of the upper studs 202 are located above the tops of the upper shroud walls 152 .
- the windows 156 provide access to the upper studs 202 , such as for electrical connection to the building wiring 12 .
- the upper chambers 154 may be open at the top 110 to allow loading of the ring terminals 26 onto the upper studs 202 from above the appliance power connector 100 .
- the threaded nuts 106 may be threadably coupled to the power terminals 104 to mechanically and electrically connect the ring terminals 26 to the power terminals 104 .
- FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the power connector system 10 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the power connector system 10 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the building wiring 12 and the appliance wiring 14 coupled to the appliance power connector 100 .
- the threaded nuts 106 , 108 are secured to the upper and lower studs 202 , 204 , respectively.
- the appliance wiring 14 ( FIG. 7 ) is initially connected to the appliance power connector 100 .
- the ring terminals 36 ( FIG. 7 ) of the appliance wiring 14 are coupled to the lower studs 204 .
- a ground strap 300 is coupled to the ground terminal 104 c .
- the ground strap 300 may include a metal plate 302 having openings 304 for receiving the ground terminal 104 c , fasteners or other components.
- the ground strap 300 may be coupled to the appliance 50 , such as to a frame or other grounded part of the appliance 50 .
- the lower threaded nuts 108 are threadably coupled to the lower studs 204 to secure the ring terminals 36 and the ground strap 300 to the power terminals 104 .
- the power terminals 104 are retained in the terminal block 102 .
- the power terminals 104 are unable to be removed from the terminal block 102 from the top 110 .
- the main bodies 200 of the power terminals 104 are seated against the shoulders 136 in the pockets 130 and the power terminals 104 are unable to be removed from the terminal block 102 through the bottom 112 .
- the appliance power connector 100 may be mounted to the appliance 50 .
- the building wiring 12 ( FIG. 6 ) may be connected to the appliance power connector 100 .
- the ring terminals 26 ( FIG. 6 ) are coupled to the upper studs 202 .
- the upper threaded nuts 106 are threadably coupled to the upper studs 202 to secure the ring terminals 26 .
- the ring terminals 26 exit the terminal block 102 through the windows 156 .
- the double ended power terminals 104 allow connection of the building wiring 12 and the appliance wiring 14 to opposite sides of the appliance power connector 100 .
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Abstract
Description
- The subject matter herein relates generally to power connectors.
- Power connectors are used to power devices, such as appliances. In known appliances, the appliance wiring exits the appliance, such as from the rear of the appliance. The owner electrically connects the building wiring (line, neutral, ground) to the appliance wiring. For example, wire nuts may be used to directly connect the building wiring to the appliance wiring. The building wiring may include a plug cord coupled to the appliance and having a plug at an end of a cable assembly, where the plug is coupled to an outlet of the building to supply power to the appliance. Some known appliances include terminal blocks having terminals. The appliance wiring and the building wiring are connected to the terminals. However, access to the terminals is typically restricted making connection of the building wiring to the terminals difficult. Additionally, the appliance wiring and the building wiring are typically made at different times, which may lead to disconnection of the appliance wiring or loss of parts.
- A need remains for a power connector for connecting wiring of an appliance with building wiring in a reliable manner.
- In one embodiment, an appliance power connector is provided and includes a terminal block having a base. The base includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The base includes a pocket. The terminal block includes an upper shroud and a lower shroud. The upper shroud has upper shroud walls extending from the base forming an upper chamber above the upper surface. The lower shroud has lower shroud walls extending from the base forming a lower chamber below the lower surface. The appliance power connector includes a power terminal coupled to the terminal block. The power terminal includes a main body, an upper stud extending from a top of the main body and a lower stud extending from a bottom of the main body. The main body is received in the pocket. The upper stud is located in the upper chamber above the base for connection to an upper power cable terminal. The lower threaded stud is located in the lower chamber below the base for connection to a lower power cable terminal.
- In another embodiment, an appliance power connector is provided and includes a terminal block having a base. The base includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The base includes pockets spaced apart along the upper surface. The terminal block includes an upper shroud and a lower shroud. The upper shroud has upper shroud walls extending from the base forming upper chambers above the upper surface. The upper shroud walls separate the upper chambers from each other. The upper chambers is aligned with the pockets. The lower shroud has lower shroud walls extending from the base forming lower chambers below the lower surface. The lower shroud walls separate the lower chambers from each other. The lower chambers is aligned with the pockets. The appliance power connector includes power terminals coupled to the terminal block at the pockets. The power terminals include a line terminal, a neutral terminal and a ground terminal. Each power terminal includes a main body, an upper stud extending from a top of the main body and a lower stud extending from a bottom of the main body. The main body has a locating surface. The main body is received in the corresponding pocket with the locating surface engaging the terminal block to locate the power terminal relative to the terminal block. The upper stud is located in the corresponding upper chamber above the base. The lower threaded stud is located in the corresponding lower chamber below the base. The lower stud of the line terminal is configured to be coupled to an appliance line wire of an appliance wire harness and the upper stud of the line terminal is configured to be coupled to a building line wire. The lower stud of the neutral terminal is configured to be coupled to an appliance neutral wire of the appliance wire harness and the upper stud of the neutral terminal is configured to be coupled to a building neutral wire. The lower stud of the ground terminal is configured to be coupled to an appliance ground wire of the appliance wire harness and the upper stud of the ground terminal is configured to be coupled to a building ground wire.
- In a further embodiment, a power connector system for an appliance is provided and includes an appliance wire harness having an appliance line wire, an appliance neutral wire, and an appliance ground wire. The power connector system includes an appliance power connector coupled to the applicant wire harness and configured to be coupled to a building wire harness. The appliance power connector includes a terminal block and power terminals coupled to the terminal block. The power terminals include a line terminal, a neutral terminal and a ground terminal. The power connector system includes the terminal block including a base has an upper surface and a lower surface. The base includes pockets spaced apart along the upper surface. The terminal block includes an upper shroud and a lower shroud. The upper shroud has upper shroud walls extending from the base forming upper chambers above the upper surface. The upper shroud walls separate the upper chambers from each other. The upper chambers is aligned with the pockets. The lower shroud has lower shroud walls extending from the base forming lower chambers below the lower surface. The lower shroud walls separate the lower chambers from each other. The lower chambers is aligned with the pockets, The terminal block includes an appliance mounting feature for mounting the terminal block to the appliance. Each power terminal includes a main body, an upper stud extending from a top of the main body and a lower stud extending from a bottom of the main body. The main body is received in the corresponding pocket. The upper stud is located in the corresponding upper chamber above the base. The lower threaded stud is located in the corresponding lower chamber below the base. The lower stud of the line terminal is coupled to the appliance line wire of the appliance wire harness by a first threaded nut. The lower stud of the neutral terminal is coupled to the appliance neutral wire of the appliance wire harness by a second threaded nut, and the lower stud of the ground terminal is coupled to the appliance ground wire of the appliance wire harness by a third threaded nut.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a power connector system for an appliance in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 2 is a top perspective, exploded view of the appliance power connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a portion of the terminal block in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the appliance power connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the appliance power connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment showing appliance wiring connected to the appliance power connector. -
FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the power connector system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the power connector system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of apower connector system 10 for anappliance 50 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Thepower connector system 10 is used for powering theappliance 50. Thepower connector system 10 includes anappliance power connector 100 used to connectbuilding wiring 12 toappliance wiring 14. In various embodiments, thebuilding wiring 12 may include a cable assembly having a plug (not shown) at an end of the wiring configured to be plugged into an outlet of the building. Thebuilding wiring 12 supplies power from the building to theappliance 50. In other various embodiments, thebuilding wiring 12 may be wiring routed in a wall of the building being directly connected to theappliance 50. In an exemplary embodiment, theappliance power connector 100 is a single device. In alternative embodiments, thepower connector system 10 may include multipleappliance power connectors 100. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
building wiring 12 is connected to one side of theappliance power connector 100 and theappliance wiring 14 is connected to and opposite sides of theappliance power connector 100. Theappliance power connector 100 may be mounted to theappliance 50, such as a frame, a wall, or another component of theappliance 50. Theappliance power connector 100 may be mounted internally within the interior of theappliance 50. Theappliance power connector 100 may be mounted to a back or the bottom of theappliance 50 such that thebuilding wiring 12 is not viewable from the top or front of theappliance 50. Other mounting locations are possible in alternative embodiments. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
building wiring 12 includes abuilding line wire 20, a buildingneutral wire 22, and abuilding ground wire 24. Optionally,terminals 26, such as ring terminals, may be provided at the ends of thewires wires wires wires building wiring 12 supplies power to theappliance power connector 100 and theappliance wiring 14 to power theappliance 50. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
appliance wiring 14 includes anappliance line wire 30, an applianceneutral wire 32, and anappliance ground wire 34. Optionally,terminals 36, such as ring terminals, may be provided at the ends of thewires wires wires wires wires appliance wiring 14 supplies power to theappliance 50 from theappliance power connector 100. - Optionally, the
power connector system 10 may include one or moreelectrical components 16 between theappliance power connector 100 and theappliance wiring 14 or between theappliance wiring 14 and theappliance 50. For example, theelectrical component 16 may be a circuit protection device. Theelectrical component 16 may include a circuit board. Theelectrical component 16 may be directly connected to theappliance power connector 100. Alternatively, theelectrical component 16 may be remote from theappliance power connector 100 and electrically connected to theappliance power connector 100 by theappliance wiring 14. -
FIG. 2 is a top perspective, exploded view of theappliance power connector 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Theappliance power connector 100 includes aterminal block 102 and one ormore power terminals 104 coupled to theterminal block 102. Thebuilding wiring 12 and theappliance wiring 14 are terminated to thepower terminals 104. For example, thering terminals power terminals 104. In an exemplary embodiment, thering terminals power terminals 104. Threaded nuts 106, 108 are used here thering terminals power terminals 104. The threadednuts power terminals 104. - The
terminal block 102 is manufactured from a dielectric material, such as a plastic material. In an exemplary embodiment, theterminal block 102 is a molded part. For example, theterminal block 102 may be an injection molded. Theterminal block 102 includes a top 110 and the bottom 112. Theterminal block 102 includes a front 114 at the rear 116 opposite thefront 114. The front 114 and the rear 116 extend between the top 110 and the bottom 112. Optionally, the front 114 and the rear 116 are generally planar and parallel to each other. However, the front 114 and the rear 116 may be nonplanar in alternative embodiments. Theterminal block 102 hasopposite sides 118 between the front 114 and the rear 116. Optionally, thesides 118 may be curved. Alternatively, thesides 118 may be planar and parallel to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, theterminal block 102 is elongated along a longitudinal axis that extends between thesides 118. The front 114 and/or the rear 116 may be parallel to the longitudinal axis. Theterminal block 102 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments. - The
terminal block 102 includes a base 120 having anupper surface 122 and thelower surface 124. Thebase 120 is configured to hold thepower terminals 104. In an exemplary embodiment, thebase 120 includespockets 130 that receivecorresponding power terminals 104. Optionally, thepockets 130 extend entirely through thebase 120. For example, thepockets 130 are open at theupper surface 122 and open at thelower surface 124. In an exemplary embodiment, thepower terminals 104 are loaded into thepockets 130 through theupper surface 122. Portions of thepower terminals 104 extend above theupper surface 122 and portions of thepower terminals 104 extend along thelower surface 124. As such, thepower terminals 104 are accessible from above and below thebase 120 for connection to thecorresponding terminals -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a portion of theterminal block 102 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.FIG. 3 illustrates one of thepockets 130 formed in thebase 120 of theterminal block 102. Thepocket 130 passes through thebase 120. In an exemplary embodiment, thepocket 130 includes anupper portion 132 and alower portion 134. In an exemplary embodiment, theterminal block 102 includes ashoulder 136 extending into thepocket 130. Theshoulder 136 is provided at the bottom of theupper portion 132. Theshoulder 136 is used to support thepower terminal 104 in thepocket 130. For example, thepower terminal 104 may be seated against theshoulder 136 when received in thepocket 130. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
upper portion 132 is shaped differently than thelower portion 134. In the illustrated embodiment, thelower portion 134 is cylindrical and theupper portion 132 is polygonal shaped, such as being hexagonal shaped. For example, theupper portion 132 includes a plurality of flat wall segments 138 (for example, six wall segments 138) surrounding the outer perimeter of thepocket 130. Thelower portion 134 and/or theupper portion 132 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments. In various embodiments, thelower portion 134 and theupper portion 132 may have the same shape but may have different sizes, such as different diameters. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
terminal block 102 includes one or more interference features 140 extending into thepocket 130. The interference features 140 may be provided on one or more of thewall segments 138. Thepower terminal 104 is configured to engage the interference features 140 when received in thepocket 130. The interference features 140 may hold thepower terminal 104 in thepocket 130 by an interference fit. In various embodiments, the interference features 140 are crush ribs. Theterminal block 102 may include other types of securing features in alternative embodiments, such as latches, clips, tabs, slots, grooves, and the like in thepocket 130 configured to interface with thepower terminal 104 to hold thepower terminal 104 in thepocket 130. - Returning to
FIG. 2 , theterminal block 102 includes anupper shroud 150 at the top 110 and alower shroud 160 at the bottom 112. Theupper shroud 150 is configured to surround upper portions of thepower terminals 104. Thelower shroud 160 is configured to surround lower portions of thepower terminals 104. Theshroud power terminals 104 to protect thepower terminals 104 from damage. Theshrouds power terminals 104 and preventing inadvertent touching or electrical shorting. Theshrouds power terminals 104 by preventing electrical arcing between thepower terminals 104. - The
upper shroud 150 includesupper shroud walls 152 extending upward from thebase 120. Theupper shroud walls 152 formupper chambers 154 above theupper surface 122 of thebase 120. Theupper chambers 154 are aligned with thepockets 130. In the illustrated embodiment, threeupper chambers 154 are stacked side-by-side along the longitudinal axis of theterminal block 102 with theupper shroud walls 152 separating theupper chambers 154 from each other. Portions of thepower terminals 104 extend into theupper chambers 154. Theupper shroud walls 152 provide protection for thepower terminals 104 and electrical isolation between thepower terminals 104. In an exemplary embodiment, theupper shroud walls 152 are non-continuous. For example, theupper shroud walls 152 have gaps or spaces therebetween thatform windows 156. In the illustrated embodiment, theterminal block 102 includesfront windows 156 at the front 114 andrear windows 156 at the rear 116. Thewindows 156 provide access to thepower terminals 104 in theupper chambers 154, such as for viewing the connection between thepower terminals 104 and thebuilding wiring 12 or for access by a tool to make the electrical connection between thepower terminals 104 and thebuilding wiring 12. Theupper shroud walls 152 extend between the front 114 and the rear 116. In the illustrated embodiment, theupper shroud walls 152 are curved making semicircular wall segments between thepower terminals 104. Theupper shroud walls 152 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments, such as being planar and perpendicular to the front 114 and/or the rear 116. - The
lower shroud 160 includeslower shroud walls 162 extending upward from thebase 120. Thelower shroud walls 162 formlower chambers 164 below thelower surface 124 of thebase 120. Thelower chambers 164 are aligned with thepockets 130. In the illustrated embodiment, threelower chambers 164 are stacked side-by-side along the longitudinal axis of theterminal block 102 with thelower shroud walls 162 separating thelower chambers 164 from each other. Portions of thepower terminals 104 extend into thelower chambers 164. Thelower shroud walls 162 provide protection for thepower terminals 104 and electrical isolation between thepower terminals 104. In an exemplary embodiment, thelower shroud walls 162 are non-continuous. For example, thelower shroud walls 162 have gaps or spaces therebetween formingwindows 166 that provide access to thepower terminals 104 in thelower chambers 164. Thelower shroud walls 162 extend between the front 114 and the rear 116. In the illustrated embodiment, thelower shroud walls 162 are planar and perpendicular to the front 114 and/or the rear 116. Thelower shroud walls 162 may have other shapes in alternative embodiments. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
terminal block 102 includes mountingportions 170 configured be mounted to theappliance 50. For example, the mountingportions 170 may be mounted to the frame or a wall of theappliance 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the mountingportions 170 are provided at the bottom 112 of theterminal block 102. Thelower shroud walls 162 define the mountingportions 170. In an exemplary embodiment, afastener openings 172 pass through theterminal block 102 at the mountingportions 170. Thefastener openings 172 to receivefasteners 174 used to secure theterminal block 102 to theappliance 50. Thefasteners 174 may be threaded fasteners configured to be threadably coupled to theappliance 50. Other types of fasteners may be used in alternative embodiments. In other various embodiments, theterminal block 102 may be secured to theappliance 50 by other types of securing features, such as latches, clips, mounting brackets and the like. - The
power terminals 104 are used to electrically connect thebuilding wiring 12 with theappliance wiring 14. In an exemplary embodiment, thepower terminals 104 are double ended power terminals configured to be electrically connected to thewiring power terminals 104. Eachpower terminal 104 includes amain body 200, anupper stud 202 and alower stud 204. Theupper stud 202 extends from a top 206 of themain body 200. The lower stud extends from a bottom 208 of themain body 200. Theupper stud 202 is aligned with thelower stud 204 along a central axis of thepower terminal 104. In various embodiments, theupper stud 202 is a threaded stud and thelower stud 204 is a threaded stud. However, thestuds - In an exemplary embodiment, the
main body 200 is approximately centered along thepower terminal 104. Themain body 200 has a different shape than thestuds main body 200 has a polygonal shape, such as a hexagonal shape, while thestuds main body 200 is wider than thestuds shoulder 136 of thepocket 130 when thepower terminal 104 is loaded into theterminal block 102. - The
main body 200 includes a plurality offlat surfaces 210 around an outer perimeter of themain body 200. Theflat surfaces 210 may face correspondingwall segments 138 when thepower terminal 104 is received in thepocket 130. One or more of theflat surfaces 210 may engage thecrush ribs 140 to mechanically secure thepower terminal 104 in theterminal block 102, such as by an interference fit. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of theflat surfaces 210 define a locatingsurface 212 for thepower terminal 104. The locatingsurface 212 is configured to engage theterminal block 102 to locate thepower terminal 104 relative to theterminal block 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the locatingsurface 212 engages thecorresponding wall segment 138 of thepocket 130. The locatingsurface 212 positions thepower terminal 104 relative to theterminal block 102 in one or more directions perpendicular to the central axis of thepower terminal 104. The locatingsurface 212 may resist rotation of thepower terminal 104 relative to theterminal block 102. Optionally, all of theflat surfaces 210 may form locatingsurfaces 212, with each of theflat surfaces 210 engaging thecorresponding wall segments 138 to position thepower terminal 104 in theterminal block 102. - The
upper stud 202 includes ashank 220 extending from themain body 200 to adistal end 222 at a top of thepower terminal 104. At least a portion of theshank 220 includesthreads 224 along the exterior thereof. Theupper stud 202 is configured to be threadably coupled with the threadednut 106. The threadednut 106 includesinternal threads 226 threadably coupled to thethreads 224 of theupper stud 202. - The
lower stud 204 includes ashank 230 extending from themain body 200 to adistal end 232 at a bottom of thepower terminal 104. At least a portion of theshank 230 includesthreads 234 along the exterior thereof. Thelower stud 204 is configured to be threadably coupled with the threadednut 108. The threadednut 108 includesinternal threads 236 threadably coupled to thethreads 234 of thelower stud 204. Optionally, thelower stud 204 has the same diameter as theupper stud 202. However, in alternative embodiments, thelower stud 204 may have a different diameter as theupper stud 202. -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of theappliance power connector 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.FIG. 5 is a perspective view of theappliance power connector 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment showingappliance wiring 14 connected to theappliance power connector 100. In an exemplary embodiment, theterminal block 102 of theappliance power connector 100 holds three of thepower terminals 104 for connection with theappliance line wire 30, the applianceneutral wire 32, and theappliance ground wire 34. As such, thepower terminals 104 define aline terminal 104 a, aneutral terminal 104 b, and aground terminal 104 c. -
FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate thepower terminals 104 loaded into theterminal block 102. In an exemplary embodiment, thepower terminals 104 are loaded into the correspondingpockets 130 of theterminal block 102 from above (for example, through the upper surface 122). Themain body 200 of eachpower terminal 104 is received in thecorresponding pocket 130. The bottoms of themain bodies 200 may be seated against the shoulders 136 (shown inFIG. 2 ) of thepocket 130. In an exemplary embodiment, the top 206 of eachmain body 200 may be generally coplanar with theupper surface 122 of thebase 120. Theupper studs 202 extend into the correspondingupper chambers 154 of theupper shroud 150. Thelower studs 204 extend into the correspondinglower chambers 164 of thelower shroud 160. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
lower shroud walls 162 have heights that are greater than the height of thelower studs 204 such that the bottoms of thelower shroud walls 162 are located below the distal ends 232 of thelower studs 204. As such, the bottom of theterminal block 102 may be mounted to a mounting structure, such as the appliance without damaging thepower terminals 104 and without interference from thelower studs 204. Thewindows 166 provide access to thelower studs 204, such as for electrical connection to theappliance wiring 14. Optionally, thelower chambers 164 may be open at the bottom 112 to allow loading of thering terminals 36 onto thelower studs 204 from below theappliance power connector 100. For example, theappliance wiring 14 may be connected to theappliance power connector 100 prior to mounting theappliance power connector 100 to the mounting structure of theappliance 50. In an exemplary embodiment, multipleappliance line wires 30 and/or multiple applianceneutral wires 32 and/or multipleappliance ground wires 34 may be connected to theline terminal 104 a, theneutral terminal 104 b, and theground terminal 104 c, respectively. The threaded nuts 108 may be threadably coupled to thepower terminals 104 to mechanically and electrically connect thering terminals 36 to thepower terminals 104. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
upper shroud walls 152 have heights that may be greater than the height of theupper studs 202 such that the tops of theupper shroud walls 152 are located above the distal ends 222 of theupper studs 202. Alternatively, as in the illustrated embodiment, theupper shroud walls 152 have heights less than the height of theupper studs 202. The distal ends 222 of theupper studs 202 are located above the tops of theupper shroud walls 152. Thewindows 156 provide access to theupper studs 202, such as for electrical connection to thebuilding wiring 12. Optionally, theupper chambers 154 may be open at the top 110 to allow loading of thering terminals 26 onto theupper studs 202 from above theappliance power connector 100. The threaded nuts 106 may be threadably coupled to thepower terminals 104 to mechanically and electrically connect thering terminals 26 to thepower terminals 104. -
FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of thepower connector system 10 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of thepower connector system 10 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate thebuilding wiring 12 and theappliance wiring 14 coupled to theappliance power connector 100. The threadednuts lower studs - In use, the appliance wiring 14 (
FIG. 7 ) is initially connected to theappliance power connector 100. The ring terminals 36 (FIG. 7 ) of theappliance wiring 14 are coupled to thelower studs 204. In an exemplary embodiment, aground strap 300 is coupled to theground terminal 104 c. Theground strap 300 may include ametal plate 302 havingopenings 304 for receiving theground terminal 104 c, fasteners or other components. Theground strap 300 may be coupled to theappliance 50, such as to a frame or other grounded part of theappliance 50. The lower threadednuts 108 are threadably coupled to thelower studs 204 to secure thering terminals 36 and theground strap 300 to thepower terminals 104. Thering terminals 36 and theground strap 300 exit theterminal block 102 through thewindows 166. After the lower threadednuts 108 are secured to thelower studs 204, thepower terminals 104 are retained in theterminal block 102. Thepower terminals 104 are unable to be removed from theterminal block 102 from the top 110. Themain bodies 200 of thepower terminals 104 are seated against theshoulders 136 in thepockets 130 and thepower terminals 104 are unable to be removed from theterminal block 102 through the bottom 112. - After the
appliance wiring 14 is connected to theappliance power connector 100, theappliance power connector 100 may be mounted to theappliance 50. After theappliance power connector 100 is mounted to theappliance 50, the building wiring 12 (FIG. 6 ) may be connected to theappliance power connector 100. The ring terminals 26 (FIG. 6 ) are coupled to theupper studs 202. The upper threadednuts 106 are threadably coupled to theupper studs 202 to secure thering terminals 26. Thering terminals 26 exit theterminal block 102 through thewindows 156. The double endedpower terminals 104 allow connection of thebuilding wiring 12 and theappliance wiring 14 to opposite sides of theappliance power connector 100. - It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Dimensions, types of materials, orientations of the various components, and the number and positions of the various components described herein are intended to define parameters of certain embodiments, and are by no means limiting and are merely exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the claims will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function void of further structure.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US17/502,900 US11936155B2 (en) | 2021-10-15 | 2021-10-15 | Terminal block with coupling capabilities on upper and lower studs |
CN202211244174.3A CN115986442A (en) | 2021-10-15 | 2022-10-12 | Appliance power connector |
DE102022126728.8A DE102022126728A1 (en) | 2021-10-15 | 2022-10-13 | Household appliance power connector |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US17/502,900 US11936155B2 (en) | 2021-10-15 | 2021-10-15 | Terminal block with coupling capabilities on upper and lower studs |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20230124123A1 true US20230124123A1 (en) | 2023-04-20 |
US11936155B2 US11936155B2 (en) | 2024-03-19 |
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US17/502,900 Active US11936155B2 (en) | 2021-10-15 | 2021-10-15 | Terminal block with coupling capabilities on upper and lower studs |
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US (1) | US11936155B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN115986442A (en) |
DE (1) | DE102022126728A1 (en) |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20010024911A1 (en) * | 2000-03-23 | 2001-09-27 | Co.E.P.T.E. Costruzioni Elettromeccaniche Per Trazione Elettrica S.R.L. | Feedthrough terminal block, particularly for connecting electric cables in lines or systems for electric traction |
US8105118B2 (en) * | 2009-10-22 | 2012-01-31 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Torque resistant terminal block element |
-
2021
- 2021-10-15 US US17/502,900 patent/US11936155B2/en active Active
-
2022
- 2022-10-12 CN CN202211244174.3A patent/CN115986442A/en active Pending
- 2022-10-13 DE DE102022126728.8A patent/DE102022126728A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20010024911A1 (en) * | 2000-03-23 | 2001-09-27 | Co.E.P.T.E. Costruzioni Elettromeccaniche Per Trazione Elettrica S.R.L. | Feedthrough terminal block, particularly for connecting electric cables in lines or systems for electric traction |
US8105118B2 (en) * | 2009-10-22 | 2012-01-31 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Torque resistant terminal block element |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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CN115986442A (en) | 2023-04-18 |
DE102022126728A1 (en) | 2023-04-20 |
US11936155B2 (en) | 2024-03-19 |
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